Kari's Keen Knowledge

Is your little baby approaching 4, 5, or even 6 months and hasn't begun to lift his head, push up with his hands, or attempt to crawl? It's normal for children to develop at their own pace. But for a child to be approaching a year without hitting these milestones is something to keep an eye on at the very least.

Look at the daily routine of your baby. Does he engage you in eye contact, make coos, babble, or laugh? He should be tracking your movements across the room, especially when you hold him upright in your lap. Be sure not to fall into a pattern of feeding, holding, and putting your baby to sleep. He needs to be propped in upright supported sitting positions. If he seems like he's trying to engage his legs, help him to do so and let him stand (supported) as long as he likes from as early as only a couple of months. This helps to build his leg muscles and when he tires, he'll quit.

Be sure to give your baby plenty of tummy time. Many babies fight being placed on their bellies. It isn't as comfortable, it's harder to see their environment, and they are less mobile. Your infant may scream and cry and it's easy for you to simply pick him up-but don't. Instead, use a baby mirror and place it in front of your baby's face. Engage your baby by laying down with him so that he can see you easily.

As time goes by, try to increase the amount of time he is on his belly daily, and within two weeks or so he should stop being so fussy about it. As he begins to adjust to it, he will first lift his head, try to roll (usually just from one specific side to another) and eventually push up and be able to roll in both directions.

Allow him to have as much tummy time during the day as he would like, when he gets over tired he'll certainly let you know.

As always, if you have any questions or feel something should be added, please email me or leave a comment!

Have a great day!